Allison Wise: “Why do I like to write poetry? Well, why did you pick up a copy of this journal? Nothing in this world is more powerful than words, and sometimes life doesn’t allow you enough time to conquer a novel. Poetry, as an established art form, is the most efficient way to convey the writer’s message by emphasizing and condensing a work so that each remaining piece carries a certain significance. There is no room for excess in poetry. This applies to the reader as well—if you’re reading this, you purchased this journal because you believe words matter. You are a receptive, willing, and capable audience who understands the significance of these pieces. Good poetry is a matter of cooperation between reader and writer, so thank you for your time and understanding of these works.”